Astrophysicist on the Autism Spectrum. Dr. Hugh Ross' life with Asperger’s Syndrome

Astrophysicist Dr. Hugh Ross recounts his life with Asperger’s Syndrome, how with a lot of help from neurotypical people he overcame handicaps, how he developed his special gifts, and the advice he offer to parents of children on the autistic spectrum.
Hugh Ross (Ph.D., University of Toronto) is founder and president of Reasons To Believe, a ministry team devoted to bridging the gap between science and faith. A well-known author and Christian apologist, Ross has addressed students and faculty on hundreds of campuses, churches, and professional groups in the U.S. and abroad. He also serves on the pastoral staff of Sierra Madre Congregational Church, and as adjunct faculty at A.W. Tozer Seminary in Redding, California. He and his wife, Kathy, and their two sons live in Southern California.
"I enjoy constructively integrating all 66 books of the Bible with all the science disciplines as a way to discover and apply deeper truths." 1 Peter 3:15-16 sets my ministry goal, "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience."
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[@benliftin4awhile]

This man is the reason that I found such strong faith, he’s never even met me, and I love him with all my heart. He has no idea the reach he has had. He helped save my life.

[@dannyfisher6681]

Well done. I'm on the spectrum myself. Thrown away by family and hated for being intelligent... But I have Jesus and something He wants me to do for Him. So I have that going for me and I cant't wait to get started.

[@shortsauce]

They didn’t know what they had, your family that is. My son is on the spectrum and he is an amazing gift and so are you.

[@dannyfisher6681]

@@shortsauce Thank you!

[@jacoblack6498]

So is my daughter, you doing okay Danny?

[@dannyfisher6681]

@@jacoblack6498 No! I'm Not!!!

[@jacoblack6498]

@@dannyfisher6681 Got to hang in there, remember tomorrow likely won't be the same as today and so, don't ever make tomorrows decision today.

[@robertjasso6673]

Love this guy. What a gift to Christians and anyone with obstacles in their life.

[@jamesdellaneve9005]

I’ve worked in aerospace for 40 years. I can see people with Asperger’s a mile away. In our work, there’s probably 5 to 10% of the engineers and scientists “on the spectrum”. I suspected that Hughes was in this category the first time that I saw him.

[@glitchnyrmatrix7296]

I was 56 when I found out I was an Aspie. It was the best news I ever received because it explained a lot. Growing up, I didn't feel stupid but I thought I must be. I couldn't do math and reading was laborious to the point I had no retention. Turns out I was dyslexic. I had trouble staying focused and was told I was hyperactive. But what I really had was ADD out of autism and only found that out at 56. Looking back, there were only two things I excelled at, and those at nearly a savant level...music and writing. It's hard to accept that I have Asperger's. I believe God gifted me with music and creativity to serve Him. I've been called a prophetic psalmist...I don't know. I am what I am. Maybe the downside of Asperger's is because we live in a fallen world.

[@bonkchoy6881]

Music..! Where can I listen to your music??

[@alexguerra1668]

That last point tho. Ikr ❤

[@aldegondavanrompuy6927]

Again, I am full of respect for this man. What a gift he is for us humane...Thank You God.

[@howardbabcom]

One of the truly great Christian teachers and people of our times. Superb interview.

[@leeglee111]

Great interview. Ty for helping us to understand.

[@gmb12philly88]

I agree. Very interesting. I’m glad he had that kind teacher who prayed for him and that everything worked out for him

[@suzysteel]

I wish I could help my high functioning son with Aspergers find his way. He's brilliant too, he seems to be all in reading, writing, expressing himself and memory. He's terrible at math, has terrible handwriting, couldnt tell time or tie his shoes for the longest time and is pretty uncoordinated. He's always studying, always has been. He never forgets a single thing he has ever heard or taught himself, but is unemployed, doesn't drive, never leaves the house. I just don't know how to help him use his gifts, I'd like to see him happy and fulfilled, participating more in this life God has given him, I'd like him to have friendship and love. He loves dogs, but worries about them and his own personal health constantly. We are Catholic. He's interested in the bible too, is currently reading books not included in our Catholic Bible. Please help me pray for him that he finds his way 🙏🙏🙏

[@benjaminjoseph3299]

🙏🙏🙏🙏 God bless..don't give up...never give up

[@suzysteel]

@@benjaminjoseph3299 thank you, I will never give up❤🙏✝️🙏❤

[@benjaminjoseph3299]

@@suzysteel My son(8yrs) is on the Autism Spectrum , speech delayed , attends "normie" school , is doing well , has an incredible memory ....his hidden talent?.....swimming 😄 Never give up 👍🙏!!!! Trust God🙏

[@suzysteel]

@@benjaminjoseph3299 swimming, that's awesome! I bet the repetitious movement of his arms and legs is as good for his brain as it is for his body, plus moving through the water provides so much sensory input, it must be very calming for him.

[@benjaminjoseph3299]

@@suzysteel the "solitary" nature of swimming really helps , he is able to focus . We were very fortunate to have come into contact with a therapist whom advised we expose CHRISTIAN to as much as we could...so we did . My boy has come a long way since first being diagnosed . How old is your son ? .

[@davspa6]

What he said about worrying about saying the wrong thing is true. Also about affinity to animals and young children, relating to them emotionally I mean. With everyone else it's like there's all these rules you have to go by. It's like they have this language that I don't have. They understand these things that I don't understand. That's how it feels living with neurotypicals. But most of the world is like that, so you just live with it. I've learned to interact pretty smoothly, but I think I don't always have the same exact feelings that a neurotypical would have about situations.

[@lggig534]

I had no idea....Hugh Ross! Thank you for sharing your life as a young child. Your work has inspired me tremendously.

[@christinaervin2514]

Hugh Ross is such an inspiration!!

[@yahccs1]

It was not obvious from your other interview video that you have Asperger's, but I'm not surprised, as it takes a lot of focus on one subject to pursue a serious science career! It would have been good to hear more about how you found out about Asperger's and when... If only it had been known about when I was at school in the 1980s, then I wouldn't have been quite so traumatised by the bullying because I would have understood why they picked on me for being different. It was horrible thinking there must be something wrong with me and I don't know what it is. Living in my own little world and burying myself in studying, reading astronomy books and fantasy stories gave me an escape from the stress of 'real life'. Then eventually when I had some counselling aged 29 they told me about Asperger's and it made so much sense - of my Dad (it describes him perfectly!) and myself to a lesser extent(?!) It's a relief to know there is an explanation and it was not 'my fault' for being too sensitive and not knowing how to relate to my classmates or not fitting in. I'm glad this personality difference is better understood these days and children on the spectrum have more sympathy and help. There must be loads of Aspie and autistic adults out there who were traumatised at school in the 1980s and earlier decades because they were not understood. Some may have gone more and more into a shell and cut off from society!

[@TheRose5357]

That is a wonderful interview on a little spoken (experienced) subject . Thank you both of you 🙏

[@100huntley]

Thanks for watching!

[@colingen5582]

What a determined child this man was. God bless him. Thank you for a look into the world of someone on the spectrum.

[@tonyke2550]

I can relate quite a bit with Dr. Ross. I too, am on the spectrum. Never had a girlfriend before, never even got along quite well with even slightly popular kids in my high school. I’m also very interested in looking at pictures of the universe and studying astronomy and astrophysics. I only hope in the near future, say... 2-5 years, I’ll at least have 1 partner that loves me. At the same time, I have to balance university stuff too.

[@ceciliamitchell4269]

Is there a special reason for waiting 2.5 yrs

[@tonyke2550]

@@ceciliamitchell4269 Because I think, if I'm not mistaken, that's the amount of time that I might have to successfully enter university and eventually finish with a Ph.D in Ross' field. Which means I wish by that time a beautiful partner will truly love me for who I am.

[@up2meable]

Such a humble and brilliant man! I’d love to hear him speak on his coming to Christ and how he overcame the handicaps in his life throughout his teenage years. I know he touched on this topic, but I feel there’s much more depth to this man that’s needed in this world right now. With millions of children on the spectrum one could use the wealth of information God has given him.

[@kendrafunk5844]

He is interviewed on Alisha Childers KZbin channel and he speaks about his studies and coming to Christ. I really have much respect for him - intelligent , humble and caring to share his faith !

[@meryllee2493]

His testimony and masses of other videos and interviews on KZbin. All so worth listening to.

[@Reenie581]

@@kendrafunk5844 Have not seen this video yet, perhaps will come across it and be able to view.

[@Reenie581]

@Sensei Kurt on the #Harpazzo / #Rapture What the heck kind of question are you asking? From my point of view you seem to be asking, since GOD ALMIGHTY gave humans free will, are millions of year of death, bloodshed, disease, and suffering "Very Good?" It's an implication that Almighty God should have just made us all automatons, with no choice, with no free will, so there would never be any evil, hardships, opposition . . . Is THAT truly what you're asking? Please clarify!

[@davidcloyd1296]

You will find a ton of him on KZbin and it’s all great! Sentinel Apologetics created a compilation of his appearances on the John Anchorburg show and it is one of the most informative videos I’ve ever watched, so good!

[@Goparis1]

Oh, how I love Hugh! I've not met him but I know I will one day. What a gift he is!

[@allisonpajak3411]

Wow, my husband's father and my husband is the same with relating to kids. My son 12 is PDD.

[@AintNoFool]

My 2nd husband was high functioning, but not a genius or savant... I have to say I had no idea what was wrong... it was a very lonely & frustrating 26 years. Only after he died (alzheimers), did my daughter & realized he was on the spectrum. He, his family, children, few friends, never realized or perhaps not noticed. It was a horrible 26 years. He was a corporate purchasing agent, but good with building trades, auto mechanics too... like it was intuitive as he had little training in those skills. He had no close friends. Just me.

[@Joshuaengels]

I’ve watched a lot of Dr Ross’s videos…. Would have never known. What a blessing to Gods people

[@ArduousPun]

Amazing testimony. I have so much respect for you Dr. Ross!

[@marejahbeleldil6233]

I am married to a wonderful high function asperger and our son is to on the spectrum, and they are extremely smart! ❤️ our son skipped two year in high school, best thing for him ever!

[@anton74624]

I have now much more hope as I thought how can I overcome my shortfalls. I noticed that Aspies have learned to survive, be committed and thrived among other things. To Jesus be the glory.❤

[@johnm84]

I have Asperger's too.

[@craiger1528]

God is creative, loving and redemptive. Even in this fallen world - whether Aspergers a dis-ability or an enhanced ability, we can always know that God has good plans for each of us!

[@francadifalco949]

Oh wow I had no idea he had ASD. I totally love him and have watched his videos .

[@MarA-te5jc]

My father had aspergers he was the sweetest person I knew. He suffered depression his whole life it was hard for him to make himself understood sometimes

[@suzysteel]

🙏❤🙏

[@enki354]

I have ADHD so I have empathy for your dad.

[@josephrobi6806]

Wonderful brother witnessing to us amazing glory to God

[@kathrynmackinnon4636]

Love this wisdom and humility.

[@karenhastey8360]

What a beautiful testimony!!

[@tywinkalandyk]

What a great interview. I had no idea. I’ve watched so many of his videos. He’s absolutely brilliant

[@josefrancis7126]

A VEY PERSISTENT MAN.

[@Lacronh]

Amen! That is excellent. Praise the Lord. God bless this brother. Thanks for sharing your testimony.

[@Cebbygamer18]

Oh nice!....Very well explained!....God bless you more!...

[@hhhunt777]

Thank you for posting. He's our favorite!!!!

[@pamelawinson3192]

This is our connection...reasons Why ....things are as they are ....

[@piperdanielle]

This is so encouraging thank you for sharing your story. Praise the Lord!

[@thedogthatsawyounaked]

I dream of meeting this man one day. He has changed my life more than I ever thought could ever be possible. The love and wisdom that this man exudes is astonishing and beautiful.

[@davidcloyd1296]

Thank you for showing us another side of Hugh Ross. I’ve watched a lot of him on KZbin, but love seeing this side of his personal life.

[@EmmysCoolVids123]

Amazing Interview 👏 God bless

[@isaiah5335]

Ross=Genius

[@emanstorm2481]

Hugh must've had his tie made from the cover of *_Music For Airports_* by Brian Eno. I notice things like that due to my Autism.

[@christinaervin2514]

Enjoyed this interview. 👌

[@barbarabrooks4747]

As a pediatric nurse, I saw many Asperger's patients. Unfortunately most I encountered were not very intelligent and tended to get needless injuries from poor judgment. It's inspiring to hear someone on the spectrum have great success. Hiwever, the public needs to know that most have learning disabilities and often ADHD and need lots of support and guidance from responsible adults for the rest of their lives.

[@alexguerra1668]

I’m curious what kind of needless injuries occurred .. 🤔? I’m on the spectrum. I’ve made a lot of dumb mistakes in my life, but apparently also bring a lot of wisdom to people.. so I’m told. I’m certain that everyone in the world needs support for life, obviously some more than others, but living in a culture that pushes a toxic level of pride in being or identifying as independent truly blinds people to this truth. Such lack of awareness, support, and community is a recipe for bad decisions as a society. 🙏🏼 What looks like support in such a society is to say, “You got this,” “You’re beautiful,” & “love yourself.” & then, rly too bad, anyone who is brave enough to ask for help ends up looked down on or as a burden cuz they don’t “got this.” Basically, hopefully more people realize that no one ever stops needing help just cuz they’re no longer children. 🌎 🙏🏼

[@louisduplessis2075]

Glad you mentioned the animals....

[@curiousgeorge555]

love this dude!

[@sandranovak4720]

Thank God for Dr Hugh Ross and his wife Kathy

[@Joshuaengels]

Amazing

[@perryandy2]

Wow instant connection

[@davejohnson6032]

"Science experiments at age two" ...blows my mind.

[@bonkchoy6881]

Wauuuuuuu

[@Midnight_Lantern]

For someone with high functioning Asperger's, they can only learn social skills if they are brought up in a supportive loving environment within family and friends. I have high functioning Asperger's, as a woman, and grew up in a neglectful, abusive environment without support and then suffered a massive injury. I was a follower of Christ from the age of 6. But growing up in this atmosphere, permanently wired me to be non empathetic, cold, cynical, and isolated. In fact I am a misanthrope. I love Yeshua /God with all my heart, but I cant stand most people. I went my whole life being judged, misunderstood, treated as invisible and of no worth or priority. So I accepted that I am a ghost and work undercover for God. I am NOT made for public interaction or evangelism. I am more gifted as a perceiver and working in spiritual warfare and discernment, so that is what I flourish in. Not every Christian is called to be social or people oriented.

[@justinpeterburford]

Dr. Ross 💯

[@SiliconeButts]

8:20 "You're an Astrophysicist, tell us how the brains of children work."

[@arch00721]

I'm good in coutjng but with doing cooking, I'm a disaster in most things with that domestic area. Read a lot into astronomy on early years.

[@ybh8ful]

Whoever this host is, he NEEDS to learn to STOP talking over the end of the answer... he starts asking more and more questions during his answering. I found it rude and impatient. 😢😢 I LOVE Hugh Ross! Remarkable story!

[@felipea1844]

What's the difference between Autism, Dyslexia, and Dyscalculia ? I was diagnosed with Dyslexia and Dyscalculia. 😢🤔✝️🇺🇲

[@pamelawinson3192]

I see Hugh...

[@natalielanguren8691]

❤️

[@lyndahubbs8274]

Perhaps, most people thinking they are on the spectrum also have thin upper lips and more physical traits of FASD Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

[@Saviour3]

We need to be merciful, to show Chesed to everyone ... there's so much pain out there Jesus died to take Isaiah 53:4; 61:1

[@multienergy3684]

Hugh Ross is the theistic-christian version of Sheldon Cooper

[@danielolley5949]

GOD BLESS YOU HUGH ROSS! GOD HAD HIS HAND ON YOU AND YOUR TEACHER KNEW YOU WERE EXCEPTIONAL.

[@pamelawinson3192]

I'm here again. Autism appears to be in my face as well. .. It's frontal lobe issue...

[@pamelawinson3192]

Reasoning. Time . Planning....

[@pamelawinson3192]

Solutions....

[@daddada2984]

To God be the glory.

[@_se7enfall_944]

Man he looks like John Malkovich

[@emmamagnolia6927]

I saw one of his vedio where he testified that the Bible is True and I'm going to share this to those atheist

[@neils_about_Gods_buisness]

Im not asbergus then. I excell at lot things can multitask now Ive lowered stress levels getting it under control with emotions just have to ignore with God in hot seat so much better still have bad issues nxb

[@John3.16.17]

Gods Ambassador ✝️

[@Morewecanthink]

He should at last learn that it is not he who decides truth but that God's word, the Bible, is truth, even Genesis 1-11.